Electrical Service Upgrades
Increase Your Power Capacity with a 200 Amp Service Upgrade
Electrical Service Upgrades in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland
If you are adding an EV charger, a heat pump, or a secondary suite, your current electrical system might not have enough power to keep up. Intense Voltage Electrical Ltd. specializes in residential and commercial service upgrades across Surrey, Burnaby, and the Lower Mainland. We help you move from an older 60 amp or 100 amp service to a modern 200 amp or 400 amp connection.
A service upgrade is different from a simple panel change. It involves increasing the total amount of electricity your property can receive from the utility grid. Our team manages the entire coordination with BC Hydro and local inspectors to make the process as simple as possible for you.
Book a licensed electricians
Why You Might Need a Service Upgrade?
Most older homes in British Columbia were built with 60 amp or 100 amp services. While this was enough for lights and basic appliances, modern technology requires much more. You likely need a service upgrade if you are planning any of the following:
A Level 2 charger can use a large portion of a 100 amp service on its own.
Switching from gas to electric heating increases your peak power demand.
Adding a basement suite requires dedicated circuits and more total amperage for the extra kitchen and laundry.
High-demand items like these often push a 100 amp system over its limit.
New machinery or kitchen equipment in a restaurant often requires a 400 amp or 600 amp service.
Book a Certified Electrician
Our Service Upgrade Process
Upgrading your electrical service is a major project that requires careful planning. We handle every step so you don’t have to worry about the technical details.
- Site Assessment and Load Calculation: We visit your property to determine how much power you currently use and how much you will need for your new equipment.
- Permits and BC Hydro Coordination: We pull the necessary electrical permits and submit a connection request to BC Hydro on your behalf.
- Infrastructure Installation: On the day of the upgrade, we install a new meter socket, service mast, and heavy-duty wiring from the utility point to your new panel.
- Inspection and Reconnection: Once the work is done and approved by a provincial inspector, BC Hydro restores the power to your property.
Electrical Service Upgrade
What to Expect on Upgrade Day
Because a service upgrade involves the wires coming from the street, your power will be turned off for most of the day. Our crew usually arrives early in the morning, and we work quickly to ensure BC Hydro can reconnect you by the late afternoon.
We take care to protect your home or business during the work. We use drop cloths and clean up our work area once the new system is live.
faqs
Common Questions About Electrical Service Upgrades
The cost typically ranges based on whether your service is overhead or underground. Overhead upgrades are generally more affordable, while underground projects may require trenching. We provide a detailed quote after seeing your property.
Yes, BC Hydro often has their own fees for disconnecting and reconnecting the power lines.
Usually, no. If you are increasing the amperage from the street, you need a panel that is rated to handle that higher load. We typically install a new 40-circuit or 80-circuit panel as part of the service upgrade.
If you are upgrading your service as part of a switch to a heat pump, you may be eligible for CleanBC or BC Hydro rebates. We can help you identify which programs might apply to your project.
